Bruthen, Paynesville, Maffra and ‘Coota brigades to receive new heavy tankers
0 comment

Bruthen, Paynesville, Maffra and ‘Coota brigades to receive new heavy tankers

Bruthen, Paynesville, Maffra and Mallacoota fire brigades will receive new tankers this year, State Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, confirmed today.

The Nationals MP said the Coalition started trials, roadshows and gaining valuable feedback more than two years ago to ensure the best vehicles are provided for those who will use them – local firefighters.

“Our plan in government was to roll these out in mid-2015, having commenced the truck replacement program. Although later than expected, it is pleasing to finally receive confirmation they are on the way,” Mr Bull said.

“After two years of design, testing and roadshows, the first of the new heavy tankers has rolled off the production line, so it should not be long before we start seeing these vehicles heading to our local brigades.

“It is also pleasing to know these tankers are being constructed in Victoria with the water tanks being manufactured in country Victoria,” Mr Bull said.

In 2015 a prototype vehicle (the Iveco Eurocargo Prototype Heavy Tanker) was viewed by more than 1200 CFA members as part of a roadshow that saw the truck travel in excess of 12,000 kilometres and it found its home in Lakes Entrance after some strong lobbying.

“While delivery of these tankers is good news, it is particularly pleasing for Mallacoota, which I understand has the oldest tanker in the region, so their upgrade is very much deserved,” Mr Bull said.

When these new vehicles are introduced into service, it will allow the phase-out of some of the older heavy tankers, which are nearing their end of life.

Caption: Nationals MP Tim Bull handing over the keys of a new vehicle to Orbost Fire Brigade members Dick Johnstone and Inky McMahon. Four more brigades will now receive new heavy tankers.